The Acne Prescription

A personalized introduction describing the author's interest and credentials begins this lesson on how to deal with acne in adolescents and adults. The advice is based on Perricone's three-pronged approach to healthier skin--diet, nutritional supplements, and topical treatments. Some of the information on specific supplements and topicals is in the form of potentially tedious lists, but the abridgment and narration are so skillful that one's interest persists. Up-to-date information about inflammation--a useful explanation for a whole host of problems--makes this lesson timely as well as powerful. This is information almost everyone will find interesting. Overall, it's an outstanding health audio for those concerned about their skin and appearance. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine

August 18, 2003
Perricone, adjunct professor of dermatology at Michigan State University and author of both The Wrinkle Cure
and The Perricone Prescription, bases his work on a simple premise: aging skin, and other dermatological conditions are the result of inflammation at the cellular level. To offset this inflammation, Perricone recommends a specific diet. Readers who follow Perricone's prescription diet are advised to avoid starchy foods and any foods that are high in carbohydrates (including many fruits and cereals). The focus is on fish, omega 3 fatty acids, protein and antioxidants, which will effectively reduce the level of cellular inflammation and produce more radiant skin. This new book reiterates this information, but uses the research and findings to assist readers of all ages, specifically adolescents and young adults with acne. A 28-day diet program, glossary of yoga exercises, and discussion of nutritional supplements is included to guide the reader toward better skin. For the most part, readers will find little here that isn't printed in one of Perricone's earlier books. But for new readers, this book may be of interest. Though his theories may still be considered contentious in dermatological circles, one can hardly argue against a regimen that dictates a healthy diet, regular exercise, and good hygiene.